Mahindra Scorpio N vs Subaru Outback
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Mahindra Scorpio N starts from $48,990 before on-road costs, while the Subaru Outback opens at $48,990. Both land at the same RRP, so on-road costs and dealer deals become the real differentiator.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $53,889 and $53,889 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Mahindra Scorpio N by roughly $1,995 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The Mahindra Scorpio N features a 8-inch touchscreen paired with a 7-inch digital dash, while the Subaru Outback gets a 12.1-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mahindra Scorpio N stands out with wireless charging and Sony audio that you will not find on the Subaru Outback. The Subaru Outback counters with panoramic roof, heated front seats and power tailgate. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mahindra Scorpio N uses a 2.2L mHawk Turbo Diesel producing 129kW and 400Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a 4WD layout.
The Subaru Outback responds with a Petrol making 137kW and 254Nm, paired to a cvt driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 9.9 seconds.
The Subaru Outback has the clear power advantage at 137kW vs 129kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mahindra Scorpio N measures 4,662mm long on a 2,750mm wheelbase, 208mm shorter than the Subaru Outback at 4,870mm (2,745mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mahindra Scorpio N generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the Mahindra Scorpio N leads with a 2,500kg braked capacity vs 2,000kg. That 500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m diameter
Good
Based on 10.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,052/year for the Mahindra Scorpio N and $2,451/year for the Subaru Outback. That is a $399 annual difference in favour of the Mahindra Scorpio N.
Estimated annual total: $2,052 (Mahindra Scorpio N) vs $2,451 (Subaru Outback). The Mahindra Scorpio N saves you roughly $399 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 7 years / 150,000km (Mahindra Scorpio N) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru Outback). The Mahindra Scorpio N has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mahindra Scorpio N if: You want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Mahindra's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Subaru Outback if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Mahindra Scorpio N takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. The Mahindra Scorpio N will save you roughly $399 a year in fuel. The Mahindra Scorpio N adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Mahindra Scorpio N and Subaru Outback?
The Mahindra Scorpio N is the cheapest at $48,990 before on-road costs.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mahindra Scorpio N uses the least fuel at 7.2L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
The Subaru Outback has the highest ANCAP rating at 5 stars.
Which can tow the most?
The Mahindra Scorpio N has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Mahindra Scorpio N has the longest warranty at 7 years / 150k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Subaru Outback makes the most power at 137kW.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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